Trade Schools in Oregon

Attending a trade school in Oregon has many benefits, including access to comprehensive classroom training, career readiness upon graduation, and the opportunity to grow and obtain even higher degrees. Notably, the state also offers various financial aid programs to help make the journey through trade schools more affordable for candidates in the area.

Below, we explore in detail some of the key aspects of attending a trade school in Oregon. We start by estimating the average costs, including tuition, books, accommodation, and more.

After this, candidates will discover some of the financial aid initiatives available based on specific requirements before discovering the relevant accreditation agencies to expect.

Lastly, they will also find an in-depth list containing Oregon’s top trade schools and colleges.

Average Cost of Trade Schools in Oregon

The average cost of attending a trade school in Oregon can fall between $7,000 to $10,000 for the public and between $15,000 to $25,000 for private trade schools.

These numbers are estimated based on data provided by relevant organizations such as the National Center for Education Statistics and some notable trade schools in the area.

Breaking down the cost, one sees that the tuition fees contribute the most to the total. Oregon public trade schools charge an average of $4,000 to $7,000 in tuition fees, while private trade schools charge between $9,000 to $21,000.

Other notable costs include books and materials, which usually range between $500 to $1,000; program-specific equipment, which usually costs between $500 to $5,000; and accommodation, which usually falls between $7,000 to $1,500 per month.

Utilities, transportation, and miscellaneous spending also contribute.

Factors Affecting Trade Program Costs

The factors affecting the cost of a trade program in Oregon can be split into two categories: the factors that vary depending on the trade schools in question and factors that vary based on the program in sight.

School-related factors include location, reputation, various programs offered, and accreditation. Program-related factors include the duration of the program, degree of specialization, and accreditation, among others.

Financial Aid for Trade Schools in Oregon

The state of Oregon organizes financial aid programs to ease the educational costs for trade school students in the state. Several financial aid initiatives are also operated by institutions, individuals, and the federal government.

We list some of the most prominent grants and scholarships to consider for trade school students in Oregon below

• Oregon Chafee Education and Training Grant - The Oregon Chafee Education and Training Grant offers up to $2,500 for foster care students enrolled in a post-secondary school in Oregon.

• OSAC Scholarships - The Oregon Office of Student Access and Completion (OSAC) offers an array of scholarships that trade school students in the state may apply for. These include both need-based and merit-based scholarships. Requirements vary based on the scholarship in question.

• Oregon Barbers and Hairdresser Grant - Students in Oregon may apply for the Oregon Barbers and Hairdresser Grant if enrolled in an approved trade school, specifically a barbering, cosmetology, or related trade field.

• Other notable mentions include the Pride Foundation Scholarships for LGBTQ+ students and the Brent Strohmeyer Memorial Foundation Scholarship, offering up to $400 in financial assistance for residents of Marion, Linn, and Polk counties enrolled in an automotive program.

Licensing and Accreditation for Trade Schools in Oregon

Typically, three organizations are concerned about accreditation for trade schools in Oregon. This includes the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, and the Distance Education Accrediting Commission.

The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities is responsible for accrediting schools on a regional level, the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges is responsible for accrediting schools nationally, and the Distance Education Accrediting Commission accredits online trade schools.

Even though many tend to confuse the two, accreditation is not the same as licensing for a trade school. Licensing means the state has registered a school and can offer educational services. On the other hand, accreditation is awarded by agencies such as the ones listed above.

Top Vocational Trade Schools in Oregon

Some of Oregon’s top and most notable vocational trade schools are the following.

Notable Mentions

Other notable mentions include Clark Community College in Oregon City, Linn-Benton Community College in Albany, Blue Mountain Community College in Pendleton, and Klamath Community College in Klamath Falls.